The Eparchy (Diocese) of Pathanamthitta is geographically the smallest among the dioceses of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church. Yet, this diocese is known for its rich Christian Heritage and is known as the ‘cradle of Reunion Movement of the Syro-Malankarites’ led by Servant of God Mar Ivanios of Bethany. In fact, the origin of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church begins from Ranni-Perunad where Mar Ivanios stayed and prayed and had nurtured the thoughts of Reunion to Catholic Church.Geographically, the Eparchy is located in the Revenue District of Pathanamthitta which is known as the ‘Spiritual Capital of ‘God’s Own Country’, Kerala’ and as ‘Headquarters of Pilgrimage Tourism’, of the State. There are 100 parishes in the Diocese and as many as 89 Priests are serving in the Diocese. The Diocesan area is basically hilly in nature including a considerable number of tribal colonies. The people in the area are keeping their centuries old faith in Christianity. The Nilackal/Chayal Church which was erected by St. Thomas the Apostole is situated in the diocesan area. The Episcopal Synod of the Malankara Catholic Church held in December 2009, presided over by His Excellency Major Arch-Bishop Moran Mor Baselios Cleemis Catholicos, decided to form the new Eparchy of Pathanamthitta. Thus the seventh Eparchy in Malankara Catholic Church, the Diocese of Pathanamthitta came into existence with the consent of His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI, on 25th January 2010. The Diocese is erected bifurcating the Major Archi Episcopal Eparchy of Trivandrum. Most Rev. Yoohanon Mar Chrysostom, Bishop of Marthandam has been appointed as the first Bishop of this new Eparchy.The Cathedral of the Diocese is St. Peter’s Cathedral, situated in the Town of Pathanamthitta. The Heavenly Patron of the Diocese is St. Thomas, the Apostle.